Neurodiversity is a term used to describe the various ways of thinking, learning, processing and behaving. It includes conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyspraxia, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, and Tourette syndrome. While these conditions are often seen as disabilities, experts believe that they may have evolutionary advantages. For example, hyperactivity and impulsivity could have helped our ancestors find food or stay away from danger.
Similarly, strong non-social skills, like those that some people with autism have, were beneficial for our prehistoric ancestors who lived in nature. In recent years, there has been an increase in awareness about neurodiversity due to the rise in diagnoses of autism. It is estimated that about half of people with autism are “autism experts” who demonstrate exceptional abilities in other areas. To ensure that neurodivergent individuals are not excluded from the workplace, employers should consider adapting their hiring process and providing short training sessions to current employees. This will help them understand what to expect from their new colleagues and how to accommodate them. In addition to helping employers create a more inclusive workplace, understanding neurodiversity can also benefit individuals with these conditions.
For example, it can help them recognize their strengths and find ways to use them in their daily lives. It can also help them understand how their condition affects their behavior and how to manage it better. Finally, understanding neurodiversity can help reduce the stigma associated with these conditions and create a more accepting society.
